Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Baked Cod Recipe
You’ll absolutely love this Parmesan Baked Cod recipe for its simplicity and delicious flavor. It’s one of those go-to meals that never disappoints.
With just a handful of ingredients, I whip it up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests. The crispy, cheesy topping perfectly complements the tender cod, creating a delightful texture and taste.
Plus, it’s baked, so I don’t feel guilty about indulging. I can’t wait for you to try it; I’m confident it’ll quickly become a favorite in your household, just like it’s in mine!
Ingredients of Parmesan Baked Cod
When it comes to whipping up a delicious dinner, the ingredients can make all the difference. For this Parmesan Baked Cod recipe, you’ll find that the list is wonderfully simple yet packed with flavor. I mean, who doesn’t love a dish that comes together without a lot of fuss?
Let’s plunge into what you’ll need to bring this dish to life, and trust me, you probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry right now.
Here’s your ingredient list:
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons cornmeal
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 lb cod fish fillet
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Now, as you gather these ingredients, take a moment to appreciate how easy this is. You’ve got your basic pantry staples like flour and cornmeal, which are the unsung heroes of many recipes.
And the beauty of this Parmesan Baked Cod is that you can easily swap out the cod for another white fish if you’re feeling adventurous or if that’s what’s on sale at the store. Just remember that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the fish you choose.
Oh, and don’t skimp on the parmesan cheese—it’s the star of the show, adding that wonderful, crispy layer that makes each bite so satisfying. So, get ready to bake some magic in your kitchen.
How to Make Parmesan Baked Cod
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s jump into making this easy and delicious Parmesan Baked Cod. First things first, preheat your oven to a sizzling 450 degrees. I mean, who doesn’t love the smell of a preheating oven? It’s like a warm hug for your kitchen, and you know something good is about to happen.
In a shallow bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons of flour, 3 tablespoons of cornmeal, 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon of paprika, 1/8 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt. This little mixture is going to give your cod that delightful crunch. If you happen to spill a bit of flour, don’t worry; it’s just a reminder that a little mess means you’re cooking.
Next, pour 2 tablespoons of melted butter into a shallow baking dish—this is where the magic happens.
Now, take your 1 lb cod fish fillet and dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure to coat both sides well. Don’t be shy; give it a good toss. Once it’s nicely coated, place the fillet in the baking dish, turning it over so it gets a nice buttery bath.
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese generously on top. I like to think of it as giving your fish a cozy cheese blanket.
Pop that dish in the oven and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want it to flake easily with a fork, like it’s begging you to take a bite.
And trust me, once you do, you might just want to make this a weekly staple. Seriously, it’s that good.
Parmesan Baked Cod Substitutions & Variations
Although Parmesan Baked Cod is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to suit your taste or dietary needs.
For a gluten-free option, I swap out the flour for almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Instead of cornmeal, I sometimes use crushed crackers or panko for added crunch.
If you’re not a fan of cod, any white fish like tilapia or haddock works well. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or cheddar.
For a spicy kick, I add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the butter mixture. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Parmesan Baked Cod turns out perfectly, I recommend preheating your oven thoroughly before baking; this helps achieve that crispy, golden crust.
For added flavor, consider marinating the cod in lemon juice for about 30 minutes beforehand. If you want extra crunch, try mixing in some breadcrumbs with the parmesan.
Keep an eye on the baking time, as thinner fillets will cook faster. Finally, don’t forget to let the cod rest for a couple of minutes after baking; it enhances the flavor and texture.
Enjoy experimenting with sides like steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal!